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Woody Bassett 2008 recipient Woody Bassett, a lifelong resident of Fayetteville, graduated from Fayetteville High School in 1970. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Arkan- sas and a juris doctorate from the University of Arkansas School of Law in 1977. He practiced law with the Bassett Law Firm from 1977 until his retirement in 2021, specializing in litigation. During his career, Bassett was widely recognized and honored for his leadership and the many contributions he made to the law profession. In 2003, he received the Outstanding Lawyer Award from the Ar- kansas Bar Association. Bassett has actively served his community for more than 30 years. He has served on the Fayetteville City Council and Washington County Quorum Court, as well as the board of directors of the Washington Regional Medical Foundation, Washington Regional Medical System, Life Styles, United Way of Washington County, Beaver Water District Board and Fay- etteville Community Foundation. He served as chairman of the Washington County Demo- cratic Party and Washington County Election Commission and chaired multiple capital campaigns for local nonprofit organizations. Bassett stated that he is honored to have received the Wes Gordon Golden Deeds Award. "Especially when I look at the names of other recipients through the years, all of whom have made such a meaningful difference for Fayette- ville," he added. He called Fayetteville "one of the best places to live in America" and said, "I'm a proud citizen of Fayetteville and have always felt very lucky to live here. I want Fayetteville to contin- ue to be the best it can be and all it can be." Bassett feels it is important to give back to the community in as many ways as possible because Fayetteville has given so much to him and his family. "It's a joy to work with others to get things done which will make Fayetteville better and make a difference in the lives of people who live here," he said. He maintains that economic development is essential. "Any successful town needs a strong and vi- brant business community. Good and plentiful jobs are necessary for a town to grow and pros- per. The Fayetteville Chamber plays a key role in growing our city's economy and supporting our business community." Although Bassett did not know Wes Gordon personally, he does know Gordon's daughter, Nancy Allen, and her husband, Nate. He refers to them as "two of Fayetteville's finest." Bassett has witnessed firsthand the growth and prosperity in Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas over the years. "The rising tide has lifted all boats. Op- portunity abounds. We now have big city type amenities, yet still maintain somewhat of a small-town feel. The quality of life is excellent," he said. He believes that the challenge now is to maintain all that is great about area, while still meeting the demands of future infrastructure advancements, providing sufficient housing, and expanding services. Bassett's favorite thing about Fayetteville is the people. "They are the best," he said. 8

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